Chronic Brain Damage and the Hidden World of Sports Injuries

Written by Ankin Law Office

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Chronic traumatic encephalopathy is difficult to diagnose, and victims may fail to take precautionary measures to reduce the risk of aggravating the condition. These chronic brain injuries have taken high-profile status as the number of professional athletes who suffer from this condition continues to grow.

Unfortunately, many of those who suffer from this condition do not realize it. As such, the schools, equipment manufacturers, and sports leagues are never held accountable by a personal injury lawyer Chicago.

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy and Head Injuries

The symptoms may be similar to Alzheimer’s disease. CTE results from frequent, subconcussive blows to the head. This injury can result from many sports, including hockey, football, and even BMX.

BMX star Dave Mirra died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound earlier this year. He was suffering from CTE, which cannot be definitively diagnosed until the victim is dead and the brain autopsied. CTE causes the buildup of an abnormal protein. Mirra had brain deposits of this protein that were similar to that of hockey and football players who also suffered from the condition.

Top Football Official Finally Acknowledges the Link

The NFL’s executive vice president of health and safety policy, Jeff Miller admitted that there was a link between CTE and football. An experienced personal injury lawyer Chicago can provide a comprehensive, factual analysis for victims potentially suffering from CTE and other brain injuries.

Dr. Ann McKee, a Boston University neuropathologist, discovered CTE in the brains of 90 former football players. Hall of Famers such as Junior Seau and Ken Stabler were also affected.

Effects May Be Even More Widespread

Dr. Mitch Berger, of the University of California-San Francisco, stated that signs of CTE were not only limited to retired football players. Contact sports may shoulder the blame for this type of injury, but car accidents, gunshot wounds, and domestic violence may also cause CTE. Veterans returning from combat may be at risk as well.

Scientists are trying to find a way to diagnose CTE in living patients. Until this time, anyone who has sustained repeated head injuries while playing sports should be away of the symptoms of CTE. If CTE is suspected, a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer Chicago can help navigate the complex legal issues associated with brain injuries.